Introduction:
Faith means resting in the “abilities” of others. (Exodus 14:13) Very often it is simply means resting in the assurance of “the unknown” of what might occur in the future. This seems to be very important to human beings, (to know the future) to spur them on to greater and higher goals. Though we do not need to have an assurance of fighting against a 10,000 strong army with 1000 men, (common sense will dictate that we may not win - Luke 14:31-32) but if someone persuades us that we will nevertheless be victorious in such an endeavor, we will plow into it without restraint. (The story of Gideon and his 300 men is a good illustration of this - Judges 7:2) Consequently, such a talent (of favorably predicting the future) is rare and highly prized by most who wish to venture into an unknown situation, since only the divine is able to predict and control the future - such a person will truly be considered a “god-sent” asset. There are many such instances of predicting the future with pin point accuracy (Jesus fulfilled all such concerning the Messiah that would come (Luke 24:44)
Discussion:
An incident of particular note regarding such a talent is recorded in (2 Samuel 17:1-23) and the greatness of Ahithophel’s counsel stated in (2 Samuel 16:23) However, this also emphasized the fact that counsel (even “good” counsel) can be used for “bad” purposes (2 Samuel 16:20-22) When this happened, God did not take away Ahithophel’s “talent”, but “inspired king David to gain ascendancy by outwitting the advice or counsel of Ahithophel to king Absalom ( 2 Samuel 15:31; 2 Samuel 15:32-37) The lesson in this is not just that we can have a predictive talent, but also that all we speak must align with God’s counsel. If not, it may ultimately result in our “down-fall” (2 Samuel 17:23). The “displeasure” of God was repeated in the life of (Judas Iscariot) the betrayer of Jesus Christ (Matthew 27:5)
Conclusion:
“Foreknowledge” (the ability to predict the future - “the stars foretell”) is a good talent to have, but its proper application depends on the purpose of God, which is revealed in the word of God. The prognosis of the Spirit of God is that Jesus will come again. (1 Thessalonians 4:13-17) Will you give heed to this prophecy and are you ready for His return and final judgment?